Narrowleaf Sawwort

Getting to Know Narrowleaf Sawwort

First off, Narrowleaf Sawwort (Saussurea angustifolia) is a unique plant with silvery leaves and thistle-like flowers. It’s often grown for its ornamental value in gardens, especially if you're into something a little different from the usual flowers.

Choosing Seeds or Plants: You can either start with seeds or small plants from a nursery. Seeds are cheaper but may take longer to grow, while young plants give you a head start.

Timing: Narrowleaf Sawwort prefers cooler climates, so it’s best to plant in early spring or late fall when temperatures are mild. If you live in a warmer area, aim for the cooler months.

What You'll Need:

Narrowleaf Sawwort seeds or young plants

A pot or garden space with good drainage

Well-draining soil (cactus or sandy soil mix works well)

Small gardening tools like a trowel

Watering can or spray bottle

Tip: This plant likes dry conditions, so don’t overdo the watering supplies!

Planting Narrowleaf Sawwort

If Starting from Seeds:

1. Fill a small pot with well-draining soil.
2. Sprinkle a few seeds on the surface of the soil (don’t bury them too deep—just lightly press them into the soil).
3. Lightly mist the soil with water using a spray bottle to keep it moist but not soggy.
4. Place the pot in a cool, sunny spot (like a windowsill that gets morning sun).
5. Germination can take 2-3 weeks, so be patient!

If Using Young Plants:

1. Dig a hole slightly larger than the plant’s root ball in your garden or pot.
2. Gently remove the plant from its container and place it in the hole.
3. Backfill with soil, lightly pressing it down around the base of the plant.
4. Water lightly after planting to help it settle in.

Spacing: If you’re planting multiple Narrowleaf Sawworts in the garden, leave about 12 inches (30 cm) between each plant. This gives them room to grow without competing for nutrients.

Tip: Don’t bury the crown (the part where the stem meets the roots) too deep. It should be level with the soil surface.

Caring for Your Narrowleaf Sawwort

Sunlight: This plant loves sunlight, so make sure it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If you live in a really hot area, some afternoon shade won’t hurt.

Watering:

• Water sparingly! Narrowleaf Sawwort doesn’t like to sit in wet soil.
• Check the soil before watering—if the top inch feels dry, it’s time to water.
• Use a spray bottle or gently water at the base to avoid soaking the leaves.

Soil: Keep the soil on the drier side. A sandy or rocky mix works best because it drains quickly. Avoid heavy clay soils that hold water.

Fertilizing: You don’t need to fertilize much. Once a year, in early spring, you can sprinkle a little slow-release fertilizer around the base of the plant if you feel it needs a boost.

Pest Control: Narrowleaf Sawwort isn’t super prone to pests, but keep an eye out for aphids or spider mites. If you see any, spray them off with water or use an organic insecticidal soap.

Tip: If the plant starts looking leggy or overcrowded, you can trim it back lightly in early spring to encourage bushier growth.

When and How to Harvest Narrowleaf Sawwort

While Narrowleaf Sawwort isn’t typically harvested for food, you might want to collect its fluffy seed heads for propagation or simply enjoy the flowers in your garden.

When to Collect Seeds:

• Wait until the flower heads have turned brown and dried out.
• This usually happens in late summer or early fall.

How to Harvest:

1. Snip off the dried flower heads with scissors or pruning shears.
2. Place them in a paper bag and shake gently to release the seeds.
3. Store the seeds in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to plant them again.

Using the Flowers: If you want to enjoy the flowers indoors, cut them when they’re just starting to open. They’ll last a few days in a vase with water.

Tip: Let some flowers go to seed in the garden if you want the plant to self-seed naturally for next year!

1. Why are my Narrowleaf Sawwort’s leaves turning yellow?

Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage. Solution: Reduce watering and ensure the soil is draining well. If it’s in a pot, check that there are enough drainage holes.

2. Can I grow Narrowleaf Sawwort indoors?

Answer: Yes, but it needs plenty of sunlight. Place it near a south-facing window or use a grow light. Keep the soil on the dry side.

3. Does Narrowleaf Sawwort attract pollinators?

Answer: Yes! Bees and butterflies are attracted to its flowers, which makes it a great addition to a pollinator-friendly garden.

4. My plant looks crowded. Should I divide it?

Answer: Narrowleaf Sawwort doesn’t require division like some perennials, but you can thin it out by cutting back excess growth in early spring.

5. Is Narrowleaf Sawwort invasive?

Answer: No, it’s not considered invasive. However, it can self-seed if you let the flowers go to seed, so keep an eye on new sprouts if you don’t want it spreading.

Tip: If you’re worried about spreading, simply deadhead the flowers before they set seed.